It starts with a magnificent opening scene, one that's said to be iconic. I believe that. Not only the beginning makes one think of the almighty Wong Kar-Wai, only less narrative, more reduced, almost "purer", if you choose so. WKW has more plot in 5 minutes of his romantic films than this has for a 100 minutes, so that is a difference. Camera takes are endless, with flowing hand-held motions, often enough out of focus, and only as many cuts as HHH deems necessary (which will be none for a single scene). Also it comes off more modern with the great electronic soundtrack which makes for a couple of entrancing scenes.
What Millennium Mambo truly profits of, other than the photography, is the sheer bewitching lead of Shi Qu, breathtaking to look at.
So, apparently I'm rather pleased with what is offered here stylistically. And while I'm clear about that the intention of the film is just to be experienced, it didn't captivate me for more than 20 or 30 minutes. The tempo truly is sluggish and the life and, um, relationships of those people nothing I care for. It's just not enough for me to compensated by the (audio)visuals and main actress. I read that HHH's films have rather many walk-outs at festivals and it's no wonder. For the acquired taste; for me, sometimes fascinating, overall a test in patience.
btw, while searching for the opening scene, I found this 3 minute medley / tribute on Youtube. Clearly that's not the concept Hou has in mind, but if I could get something along the middle of both .. - maybe I should just return to watching my old Wong Kar-Wai favorites, then. Hm.
Add your comment
Comments 1 - 2 of 2
acelerada
Feeling blue.Torgo
Caution: slow film.It starts with a magnificent opening scene, one that's said to be iconic. I believe that. Not only the beginning makes one think of the almighty Wong Kar-Wai, only less narrative, more reduced, almost "purer", if you choose so. WKW has more plot in 5 minutes of his romantic films than this has for a 100 minutes, so that is a difference. Camera takes are endless, with flowing hand-held motions, often enough out of focus, and only as many cuts as HHH deems necessary (which will be none for a single scene). Also it comes off more modern with the great electronic soundtrack which makes for a couple of entrancing scenes.
What Millennium Mambo truly profits of, other than the photography, is the sheer bewitching lead of Shi Qu, breathtaking to look at.
So, apparently I'm rather pleased with what is offered here stylistically. And while I'm clear about that the intention of the film is just to be experienced, it didn't captivate me for more than 20 or 30 minutes. The tempo truly is sluggish and the life and, um, relationships of those people nothing I care for. It's just not enough for me to compensated by the (audio)visuals and main actress. I read that HHH's films have rather many walk-outs at festivals and it's no wonder. For the acquired taste; for me, sometimes fascinating, overall a test in patience.
btw, while searching for the opening scene, I found this 3 minute medley / tribute on Youtube. Clearly that's not the concept Hou has in mind, but if I could get something along the middle of both .. - maybe I should just return to watching my old Wong Kar-Wai favorites, then. Hm.